West Coast to Desert Baseball Road Trip: Padres, Angels, Dodgers, Diamondbacks
The road trip from Petco Park in San Diego to Angel Stadium in Anaheim, then up to Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles, and finally east to Chase Field in Phoenix is a long and scenic adventure. Along the way, you’ll pass through the beautiful landscapes of Southern California and the striking desert beauty of Arizona. This route offers not only some of Major League Baseball’s most iconic stadiums but also a wide variety of unforgettable stops and experiences.
We begin this journey in San Diego, home of the Padres and one of the most beloved ballparks in all of baseball.
Petco Park – San Diego Padres
Located in downtown San Diego, Petco Park is often considered one of the top baseball stadiums in the country. Its architecture reflects the natural beauty, diversity, and spirit of Southern California, featuring light sandstone exteriors, palm trees, and ocean-inspired design. Built in 2004, the stadium sits beside the city’s vibrant Gaslamp Quarter and boasts spectacular views of the San Diego skyline.
One of Petco Park’s most unique features is Gallagher Square (formerly Park at the Park), a green space beyond the outfield featuring a grassy hill, a stage, a play area for kids, food stands, and statues of Padre legends like Tony Gwynn. With San Diego’s famously mild weather, home games at Petco are rarely rained out, making it an ideal stadium for any baseball fan.
Things To Do in San Diego
Balboa Park
This 1,200-acre cultural oasis is home to museums, gardens, theaters, and the world-famous San Diego Zoo. Don’t miss the stunning Botanical Building, cactus garden, and Japanese Friendship Garden.
La Jolla Cove
A small beach with big views, La Jolla Cove is perfect for snorkeling, wildlife watching, or simply enjoying the rugged coastline. It’s an ecological reserve, so expect to see vibrant sea life and seals.
Mission Beach & Belmont Park
This 2-mile beach and boardwalk combo is perfect for a day in the sun. Ride the historic Giant Dipper roller coaster at Belmont Park or enjoy arcade games and beachfront dining.
Old Town San Diego
Step back in time at this historic park, considered the birthplace of California. Wander among preserved and reconstructed buildings, including adobe homes and the (possibly haunted) Whaley House.
Gaslamp Quarter
San Diego’s nightlife hub, the Gaslamp is packed with Victorian-style buildings housing restaurants, art galleries, shops, and clubs. The main action happens along Fifth Avenue.
Anaheim & Los Angeles
As you drive north from San Diego, you’re headed toward two legendary teams: the Los Angeles Angels and the Los Angeles Dodgers. There’s so much to see and do in LA, you’ll want to plan your time carefully.
Angel Stadium of Anaheim – Los Angeles Angels
Known affectionately as “The Big A,” Angel Stadium has been home to the Angels since 1966. The franchise moved from Los Angeles and played its first game in this stadium on April 9, 1966. This iconic park has hosted NFL games, concerts, and countless classic baseball moments.
Dodger Stadium – Los Angeles Dodgers
The third-oldest ballpark in Major League Baseball, Dodger Stadium is carved into the hills of Chavez Ravine, with incredible views of both downtown LA and the San Gabriel Mountains. Opened in 1962, it’s full of baseball history—from Sandy Koufax to Kirk Gibson, from “Fernandomania” to recent World Series wins. Be sure to peek into the Dugout Club for a look at the team’s trophies and memorabilia.
🔗 Visit the Dodgers at MLB.com
Things To Do in Los Angeles
Griffith Park & Observatory
Explore over 4,000 acres of trails, attractions, and panoramic views. Hike to the Hollywood sign or visit the Los Angeles Zoo, then stargaze from the observatory.
Santa Monica Pier & Beach
With more than 3 miles of beautiful beach and the iconic pier, Santa Monica offers the ultimate SoCal vibe. Rent a bike and ride along The Strand, a 22-mile bike path that hugs the Pacific Coast.
The Huntington Library & Gardens
Spend a day among rare books, fine art, and beautifully manicured gardens. Highlights include the Japanese Garden, desert garden, and art pieces from around the world.
La Brea Tar Pits & Museum
One of LA’s most unique attractions, this active Ice Age fossil site has yielded over 3.5 million specimens. Check out the bubbling pits and explore the museum’s massive fossil collection.
Grand Central Market
Since 1917, this foodie paradise has offered diverse global flavors—from tacos to Thai, from pastrami to pupusas. It’s a perfect lunch spot near the Walt Disney Concert Hall.
Phoenix, Arizona – Final Stop
Heading east, the final leg of your journey takes you to Phoenix. Known as “LA without the Pacific,” Phoenix offers desert beauty, excellent food, and plenty to explore before catching a Diamondbacks game.
Chase Field – Arizona Diamondbacks
Opened in 1998, Chase Field features a retractable roof, making it one of the most fan-friendly stadiums during Arizona’s hot summer months. Unique features include a right-field swimming pool, a massive high-definition scoreboard, and a vibrant fan zone.
🔗 Visit the Diamondbacks at MLB.com
Things To Do in Phoenix
Downtown Phoenix
Explore cultural landmarks like the Heard Museum, Japanese Friendship Garden, and Phoenix Art Museum. Heritage Square also offers historic buildings and local eateries.
Musical Instrument Museum (MIM)
Located just outside the city center, MIM has more than 8,000 instruments from around the world. You can see instruments being restored and even play a few in the Experience Gallery.
Desert Botanical Garden
Nestled among red rock buttes, this garden is home to over 50,000 desert plants from around the world. Attend events, explore themed gardens, or just enjoy a quiet desert walk.
Papago Park
Just minutes from downtown, Papago offers unique red rock formations, the Phoenix Zoo, and short hikes like the Hole-in-the-Rock trail. You’ll also find Hunt’s Tomb here—a small white pyramid with panoramic views.
Enjoy the Journey
From the ocean breeze in San Diego to the Hollywood glitz of LA and the desert charm of Phoenix, this baseball road trip is packed with unforgettable experiences, iconic stadiums, and stunning natural beauty. Whether you’re cheering on your favorite team or exploring the best each city has to offer, this trip is a home run.
The Sport Lady has been a lifelong sports enthusiast. She believes that sports have the power to unite people, create common bonds, and foster shared experiences. As a wife and mother of sports lovers, she is passionate about her favorite teams and cherishes every opportunity to watch them play. For her, every day is game day!